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timpm78
11-25-02, 03:10 PM
I have been doing some research on a few bikes; the ones I am most interested in are the Trek 2000 and the Specialized Allez Elite 27. I am open to any suggestions but I am trying to stay around 1000.00 but I am willing to step it up a little. Also does anyone know of a good place to purchase bikes from that is competitively priced?
Thanks
Tim
oregonyankee
11-25-02, 03:43 PM
The best place to start is your local bike shop (LBS) - esp if they have sales people who are roadies or racers themselves. If they are good, they will ask you about your riding goals, fitness level and, of course, budget. And, if you buy from them, they will (or should) make sure the bike is properly fit.
As for a bike, the Trek 2000 and 2200 are good starters, for sure. I rode my 2200 across Oregon; it is well fitted out (derailleurs but a 105 crank) and a good, solid first bike. You should find 2002 models near your price range. Cannondale makes good entry-priced bikes - though I am seeing Shimano Sora components on them lately. That's fine - but Tiagra would be better and 105 better still.
Finally, if you want to find a used bike, go to EBay. LOTS of choices and if you do your research carefully, you may come up with a great bike at a very good price. Also, check out the classified section at www.roadbikereview.com - I found a spotless 2002 Trek 5500 there with Mavic Ksyrium SL wheels and a Look HSC fork all for less than the list of the bike alone!
OregonYankee